The Minnesota Vikings have long been king of the Minnesota sports scene. Sure, a Twins World Series run here or a North Stars trip to the Stanley Cup Finals may steal the spotlight temporarily, but the Vikings are at the top of the heap for the most part.

To me, there are three reasons why this is the case.

Minnesota Vikings Training Camp
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THE GAMES ARE ALL ON "FREE" TV 

Fans in the state of Minnesota can see every single Vikings game, without exception, on 'free' TV. Admittedly, its harder to access even 'free' television than it was even 15 years ago with the digital antennas, but the fact remains that the games are not shown exclusively on cable (again, in the Vikings' coverage area... if you want to watch them from another state you may need cable).

Compare that to the Wild who may have games on Bally Sports, TNT or ESPN on a given night or even perhaps on ESPN+, which is essentially pay-per-view, or the Twins who are almost impossible to find on TV at times. Fans know where and when to find the Vikings game on TV.

Minnesota Vikings v Detroit Lions
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THE TEAM IS RARELY BAD 

The Vikings take a lot of guff for their playoff failures but the fact is the team has the seventh-highest winning percentage in NFL history. Yes, the losses in the big games are maddening, but its better than being the Lions (who hadn't won a playoff game since 1991 until last season).

The Vikings' ownership puts a strong effort year after year to field a winning team and the fans support reflects that dedication.

THERE IS CONTINUITY ON THE ROSTER 

Even casual fans can keep up with the team thanks to keeping familiar faces around. Harrison Smith and CJ Ham in particular have been with the team long enough that even your football-adverse uncle probably recognizes their names. However, this year the team did move on from fan favorites like Kirk Cousins, Danielle Hunter and others, so the team is a bit different-looking in 2024.

Pittsburgh Steelers v Minnesota Vikings
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Compare that with the revolving door of the Twins, who seem to bring in nearly an entirely new roster every year, especially the pitching staff!

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